Operations Manager

Commercial Manager | Operations Manager | Derby, UK | Confidential Search

Reporting to: Managing Director | Full-time, on-site role in Derby

The Business

Our client is a well-established and highly respected independent distributor within the healthcare, supplying a broad range of products, including prescription and OTC medicines, clinical consumables and specialist practice supplies, to a large customer base across the UK and Ireland.

The Role

This is a rare opportunity to work directly alongside the Managing Director, gaining exposure to every aspect of a successful and growing specialist distribution business. The role combines broad commercial responsibility with a specific focus on identifying, developing and delivering growth across existing and new markets.

The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the future direction of the business, helping to identify new customer groups, optimise and expand the product portfolio, strengthen commercial relationships and support strategic decision-making. Prior experience in every aspect of the role is not expected; strong commercial instincts, a willingness to learn and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced SME environment matter most. Comprehensive on-the-job training and development will be provided, and for the right individual this role offers significant long-term career potential, including the opportunity to take on broader leadership responsibility as the business continues to grow.

Key Responsibilities

Business and commercial management

• Work with the Managing Director on the day-to-day commercial management of the business.
• Develop an understanding of key operational and commercial functions, including distribution, supplier management, marketing and regulatory affairs.
• Support strategic planning and business development initiatives, and contribute to process improvements.
• Own and develop key supplier relationships, including reviews, negotiations and sourcing new or alternative products
• Manage key customer accounts and help shape growth plans across new and existing markets
• Get under the skin of operations, distribution, pricing and compliance, and find ways to improve them
• Take on broader leadership responsibility as the business grows

Candidate Profile

• A track record in an SME or mid-sized business that makes, moves or sells physical products (wholesale, distribution, manufacturing or similar)
• Experience managing a team, earning trust and building relationships internally
• Strong supplier or key account management experience
• A rounded commercial and operational background rather than a pure sales career
• Ambition, curiosity, and a readiness to roll up your sleeves
• Sector experience isn’t required. Healthcare or regulated-product exposure is a bonus.

We are passionate about creating an inclusive workplace for our clients that promotes and values diversity. Companies that are diverse in age, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, ethnicity and perspective are proven to be better companies. More importantly, creating an environment where everyone, from any background, can do their best work is the right thing to do.

STOIX receives a high volume of applications to advertised opportunities. As much as we strive to respond to each application individually and personally, we would advise that if you have not received communication within 10 days, your application has been unsuccessful at this time.